What does Mikel Merino has to say about the Champions League fixture against Real Madrid?

Arsenal are set to host Real Madrid in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League at the Emirates on Tuesday, April 8th. Both sides are currently second in their respective leagues and will be aiming for the title after falling behind in the league race. What makes this competition particularly interesting is the injury to key players on both sides. Despite this, Mikel Merino stated that Real Madrid have a slight advantage, but the Gunners already have a plan in place to contain them.

Talking about the game after a tough draw against Everton, Mikel Merino mentioned that it was difficult for the opposition, but now they have started to connect better. Merino also stated that if the opposition lets their guard down, Real Madrid will capitalize on it. However, amidst all of this, Merino emphasized that while he respects them, they are not afraid to face them at the Emirates. Merino said:

At first, it was difficult for them to connect with everyone, but now, they’re connecting. If you let your guard down for a second, if you don’t cover them properly, they can find an advantage and cause trouble. We have a lot of respect for them, but we’re not afraid

Talking about the complexity of the game, Mikel Merino mentioned that it is going to be a very tough match because they cannot let their mentality drop throughout the two legs. He also pointed out that Arsenal have faced very high-level opponents, but against Los Blancos, they need to be respectful, fearless, and eager. He said:

It’s going to be a very tough game, very difficult because if you switch off mentally a little, they’re capable of finding those advantages. “So far, we have played against very high-level opponents, so we have to be respectful, fearless, and eager

How have Arsenal fared against Real Madrid in the Champions League in the knockouts? 

Arsenal are one of the few sides to remain unbeaten against Real Madrid in the Champions League knockouts. The last time these two sides met, the Gunners won 1-0, with Thierry Henry scoring at the Santiago Bernabéu.